Abstract:

Loquat is a characteristic fruit of Chun'an County, with Ruantiaobaisha being the main cultivated white-fleshed variety, ripening in late May. To optimize the variety structure of white-fleshed loquats in Chun'an and further enhance industrial development, in March 2018, the Agricultural and Rural Development Service Center of Chun'an County introduced three loquat varieties-Guifei, Zaobaixiang, and Xinbai 8-from Fujian Province through Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences for a trial introduction project. Using Ruantiaobaisha as the control, the three varieties were observed over multiple years for phenological stages, stress resistance, and quality characteristics. Comprehensive analysis showed that both Guifei and Zaobaixiang adapt well to Chun'an's climate and environment, exhibiting vigorous growth and fruiting. Zaobaixiang ripens around May 18, 6 days earlier than Ruantiaobaisha, while Guifei ripens around June 1, 8 days later than Ruantiaobaisha. Guifei offers a sweet-sour flavor, whereas Zaobaixiang is distinctly sweet. Both of Guifei and Zaobaixiang produce large fruits with tender, smooth-textured flesh and high edible rates, delivering excellent quality that is highly praised by growers and consumers. Additionally, they demonstrate good resistance to fruit-cracking and shriveling disorders. It is recommended to strategically introduce and promote Guifei and Zaobaixiang in Chun'an to diversify local loquat varieties.

Key words: Guifei, Zaobaixiang, loquat, Chunan, varieties introduction